The "Fundamentals and Applications of Life Cycle Assessment (LCA)" course is designed for working professionals seeking to deepen their understanding of environmental impact assessment. This comprehensive course introduces the theoretical foundations and methodologies of LCA, guiding learners through the four-step process to evaluate the environmental impacts of products, processes, and systems. Emphasis is placed on applying the LCA methodology, including quantifying and estimating environmental impacts and analyzing results to inform policy and decision-making. Learners will analyze the core principles and methodologies of LCA, and learn to evaluate environmental impacts through detailed calculations and practical exercises. They will gain hands-on experience with industry-standard software to quantify and estimate environmental impacts, explore various sustainability metrics, and differentiate LCA from other sustainability tools. Real-world case studies will be analyzed to understand LCA applications in diverse contexts, and learners will develop actionable insights to drive sustainable practices within their organizations.

This course emphasizes the three pillars of Life Cycle Assessment (LCA)—environmental, economic, and social impacts—highlighting their importance in achieving comprehensive sustainability. By integrating these pillars, the course ensures that learners not only understand the environmental consequences of products and processes but also consider the economic costs and social implications. This holistic approach is crucial for making informed decisions that promote sustainable development, reduce negative impacts, and enhance overall well-being. Upon completion, learners will be equipped to implement LCA effectively within their organization, driving meaningful change and fostering a sustainable future.

Prerequisites
No prerequisite courses are required to enroll in the Fundamentals and Applications of Life Cycle Assessment. The course is taught in English, and all the case studies and reports are written in English. Learners will be required to write 2-3-page reflections and analyses. Additional requirements include watching lecture videos, reading lengthy case studies and reports, and utilizing basic math and computing skills.

Intended Audience
This course is intended for a broad audience of working professionals worldwide who want an introductory experience to life cycle assessment. While utilizing case studies and assessments rooted in real-world applications such as biofuels, agriculture, and bioplastics, the scope of this course is not limited to those fields. Learners are encouraged to consider how life cycle assessment applies to their own personal and professional contexts.

This course is suited for:

• Environmental Scientist/Engineer/Consultant
• Agricultural/Chemical Engineer
• Corporate or Nonprofit Sustainability Analyst/Manager
• Academic/Researcher
• Government Agency Professional
• And other professionals interested in learning about sustainability and environmental impact.